WB, RMOW named to top 50 greenest employers

Two Whistler organizations are among the top 50 greenest employers in the country.

The municipality and Whistler Blackcomb made the 2010 list and were named by the editors of Canada's Top 100 Employers project.

"We've seen a significant increase in the number of organizations that are incorporating environmental values into their culture," said Richard Yerema, managing editor at Mediacorp Canada Inc. "These organizations recognize the importance of environmental values to their employees and customers - their initiatives read like a catalogue of best practices."

Whistler Blackcomb takes the honour for a second year in a row.

The Fitzsimmons Creek run-of-river project was singled out in the competition as it produces the energy to match to the total annual energy consumption of the ski area's operating footprint. But the company's other initiatives, such as reducing waste by 75 per cent in its food and beverage division, carpooling groups, energy conservation program and community efforts, such as the Habitat Improvement Team (HIT), were also highlighted.

"We are thrilled to accept this award on behalf of our 3,800 employees," said Dave Brownlie, president and COO of Whistler Blackcomb. "This recognition could not be possible without the dedication, passion and commitment our staff and guests have shown to reducing waste and conserving energy. This is an award that we call can be proud of."

The Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) was also singled out for some of its more innovative earth-friendly initiatives such as its sponsorship of the community's week-long Enviro Fest, the Community Forest initiative and its sustainable purchasing policy.

"We are very honoured to join a list of exceptional employers that are making sustainable choices and making environmental values part of their organizational culture," said Denise Wood, the municipality's human resources director.

The RMOW was also selected once again as one of B.C.'s Top 50 Employers for programs like the self-funded leave program, lunch-hour yoga and an annual family pass to the Meadow Park Sports Centre.